White vinegar for athletes foot (don't do it!)

In my constant quest to find a natural solution to my athletes foot I turned to my vinegar book which I have always found an absolute gem.
Ok so the vinegar book says 'although it may sting at first, it isn't severe and the discomfort will pass quickly' Complete and utter tosh. It HURTS and it hurts for AGES!!!! I swore big time which is most unlike me (well those sort of swear words anyway) and dh laughed.
To top it all it stung on and off all night even though I'd washed it off.
Back to the drawing board me thinks :(